New brain scan tracks Alzheimer's protein in real time

NCT ID NCT04104659

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Tammie L. S. Benzinger, MD, PhD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses a radioactive tracer called [18F]MK-6240 to take detailed pictures of tau protein clumps in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers will scan 200 people from families with a rare genetic form of Alzheimer's to see how tau buildup changes over time and relates to memory loss. The goal is to better understand the disease's progression, not to test a treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: [18F]MK-6240 (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors better understand how Alzheimer's disease progresses and improve early detection.
What could go wrong: This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead directly to new therapies, and results may not apply to all forms of Alzheimer's.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease early-onset autosomal dominant Alzheimer disease Pick disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Washington University School of Medicine

St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

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